As temperatures dropped and winter settled across South Africa, one thing proved that sunshine was as much a state of mind as it was a season: rosé.
On International Rosé Day, 26 June, VIP Liquors invited South Africans to swap grey skies for the effortless glamour of the South of France with three exceptional rosés from Provence: Berne Romance, Crazy Tropez, and Ultimate Provence. Together, they offered a sensory escape to lavender-lined landscapes, seaside lunches, and golden-hour moments – without anyone ever having to leave home.
While rosé had long been associated with summer, consumers were increasingly discovering its versatility throughout the year. With its bright fruit character, refreshing acidity, and food-friendly nature, rosé was equally at home alongside hearty winter dishes, cosy gatherings, and fireside celebrations.
A Winter Passport to Provence
Berne Romance
Berne Romance is defined by delicate pale pink hue, vibrant aromas, and light, crisp palate creates a wine perfectly suited to relaxed, warm moments. This is a rosé that feels both approachable and elevated – perfect for slow winter afternoons and intimate gatherings. Designed to embody the art of living in the South, it offers a drinking experience that is both sophisticated and effortlessly enjoyable.
Crazy Tropez
Playful, vibrant and effortlessly chic, Crazy Tropez captures the carefree spirit of SaintTropez. An IGB Mediterraneé appellation, is an easy drinking French rosé characterized by its fresh, aromatic profile featuring delightful notes of citrus and fruits such as strawberries and peaches. It o ers a generous, indulgent, and fruity palate with a crisp, mineral-driven finish, often described as a vibrant, “gourmand” style. It is the kind of rosé that asks nothing of you but your attention.
Ultimate Provence
Contemporary and sophisticated, Ultimate Provence has become synonymous with modern Provençal luxury. Characterised by a vibrant and luminous pink hue with coppery tints, almost weightless in the glass. It is a combination of four grapes, namely Syrah, Cinsault, Grenache Noir and Rolle which produce an intense palette of aromas, with successive notes of fresh lemon and exotic fruit combined with flaunty florals embodying the vineyard’s audacious image. Its elegant profile and striking bottle make it a standout choice for those seeking a premium rosé experience, bringing a touch of Riviera glamour to every table.
“Rosé has become more than a seasonal wine category – it’s lifestyle choice,” says Keyler Valiatham, Head of Marketing, VIP Liquors at VIP Liquors. “International Rosé Day gave us the perfect opportunity to celebrate the spirit of Provence and remind consumers that rosé offered an instant escape, even in the middle of winter.”
The Rosé Winter Trend
As South Africans continue to embrace experiential dining and lifestyle-led consumption, rosé is increasingly finding a place beyond traditional summer occasions. Restaurants, wine enthusiasts and home entertainers are pairing rosé with seasonal comfort foods, from roasted vegetables and grilled seafood to creamy pastas and charcuterie boards.
The appeal lies in its ability to transport consumers to sunnier destinations through flavour, atmosphere and ritual. So, this International Rosé Day, consumers embraced the art of winter escapism: gathered friends, set the table, poured a glass and let Provence come to them.
Because while winter may be here, the South of France is only a sip away.
Availability
Crazy Tropez, Ultimate Provence and Berne Romance Rosé are available through VIP Liquors and select premium retailers, restaurants, and hospitality venues nationwide.